Metabolic Acidosis is an acid-base imbalance resulting from excessive absorption or retention of acid or excessive excretion of bicarbonate produced by an underlying pathologic disorder.

Metabolic Alkalosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by excessive loss of acid or excessive gain of bicarbonate produced by an underlying pathologic disorder. Metabolic alkalosis causes metabolic, respiratory, and renal responses, producing characteristic symptoms. This condition is always secondary to an underlying cause.